The Delta Fly District in Western Province marked a historic milestone today, joining the rest of Papua New Guinea in celebrating the nation's 50th anniversary of independence. The festivities were more than a look back; they were a bold declaration of a new direction for the district's future. In a speech to a large crowd, the new Member for Delta Fly and Vice-Minister for Forestry Mr. Agena Gamai laid out an ambitious plan to propel the district forward over the next 50 years. The celebratory atmosphere was palpable, with the member acknowledging a wide range of individuals and groups who have contributed to the community's progress. Mr. Gamai extended his gratitude to the education team, healthcare workers, church leaders, public servants, and the media, whose presence ensured the rest of the country could witness the celebration. He also gave a special welcome to Papua New Guineans from other provinces and foreign nationals who have made the Delta Fly District their home and contributed to its development. The member’s speech drew a clear line between the past and the future. He likened the last 50 years to the Israelites "circling the desert," suggesting a period of stagnation and dependence. He asserted that this was due to people "relaxing" and waiting for others to help them. "Under my leadership, I don't want you and I to circle around again. I want you and I to make a short takeoff," he said, emphasizing that the new vision is not focused on external resources but on empowering the people. He highlighted several key achievements of the last five decades, including the creation of new electorates, the establishment of Balimo Secondary School, and the revival of the Balimo Teachers' College and School of Nursing. Mr. Gamai detailed a three-pronged strategy for the next 50 years, starting with a focus on people. 1. Education and Health: He announced plans to invest in the younger generation, building new health centers and infrastructure with support from partners like PNG-STP and the Kokona Trek Foundation. 2. Infrastructure: A major component of his plan is a significant investment in roads. He announced a contract with a Chinese company to seal Balimo town roads, a move he described as a "new vision". He also revealed that $6 million has been allocated to connect mountain communities to the district's main town, ensuring people will no longer have to walk long distances to access services. 3. Economic Empowerment: The centerpiece of the new vision is a return to the land. The member called on all men to take responsibility and go back to their customary land to participate in agriculture, specifically cocoa farming. He described this initiative as the solution to decades of economic stagnation. "The message here for you is this. We have circled around over the last 50 years, complaining, relaxing... But next 50 years... the vision is targeting people," he stated. In a powerful message to the crowd, the leader challenged the men of the district, saying, "You and I failed... that is why we took 50 years. Under my leadership, I want you and I to go back to the land. I am now putting money there on the land. Please go back." The address concluded with a call to action, urging the people to embrace this new vision and work together to build a more prosperous future for the Delta Fly District. The celebration served as a bridge from a proud past to an even more promising future, driven by a new focus on self-reliance and community empowerment.